Ilia Topuria announced his move up to UFC lightweight. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @iliatopuria
The rivalry continues! Ilia Topuria fired off harsh criticisms of Charles of the Bronx during a new fight request at the UFC. When asked if he was still interested in facing the Brazilian in his lightweight debut (up to 70,3 kg), the Georgian responded with irony and even attacked the level of knowledge of the former Brazilian champion.
“Actually, yes, to give a bit of culture and teach something, because it’s obvious that this kid has never read a single page of newspaper. Next question, because it’s not a good time to talk about someone like him,” said the fighter at a press conference in Spain.
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Ilia's response comes after weeks of verbal clashes. Charles of the Bronx had already expressed confidence in knocking out the former champion if the two face each other. The Brazilian, however, downplayed the relevance of the duel and declared that prefers to focus on the expected rematch by the belt against Islam makhachev. There was no shortage of indirect messages, however.
“Some people talk too much. I just want the title,” Charles said.
The provocation did not go unnoticed. Topuria reacted harshly on X (formerly Twitter). In a viral post last week, he recalled his opponent's history of defeats.
“Charles, you better keep quiet. You have 10 losses: five by knockout, four by submission and one by decision. You are the challenger while I am the champion, the father of the entire division. I didn’t come here to ask for anything. Here, I am the boss,” Ilia replied.
Ilia Topuria is asked if he'd go for a walk with Charles Oliveira
“Actually yes, to give him a bit of culture and teach him something, because it's obvious that kid hasn't even read a single page of a newspaper.
Another question please, because this isn't a good time to talk… pic.twitter.com/mSwS9Zu8xu
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) March 25, 2025
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